Job Title: Mechanical Design Engineer
Job Summary:
We are seeking a Junior Aerospace Mechanical Design Engineer to join our engineering team. In this role, you will be responsible for supporting the design, analysis, and optimization of aerospace mechanical systems, components, and structures. You will work alongside senior engineers, applying your knowledge of mechanical design and CAD software to assist with developing innovative solutions for aerospace applications. This position provides a great opportunity to apply your education in aerospace engineering while developing your skills in mechanical design and aerospace technologies.
Key Responsibilities:
Design and Modeling:
- Assist in the design and development of mechanical components and systems for aerospace applications, including propulsion, structures, and control systems.
- Use CAD software (such as CATIA, SolidWorks, or AutoCAD) to create and update detailed 3D models, drawings, and simulations.
- Collaborate with senior engineers to refine and improve mechanical designs based on performance, safety, and manufacturability considerations.
Engineering Analysis:
- Conduct basic structural, thermal, and material analyses to support the design and validation of aerospace components.
- Assist in performing finite element analysis (FEA) on parts and assemblies to assess strength, durability, and thermal performance.
- Perform calculations for mechanical design, including load analysis, fatigue, and stress analysis under the guidance of senior engineers.
Prototyping and Testing Support:
- Assist in the development of prototypes and mock-ups for newly designed aerospace components.
- Support the planning and execution of tests to validate mechanical designs, including structural tests and material performance evaluations.
- Collect, record, and analyze data from tests to support design optimization and improvement.
Collaboration with Cross-functional Teams:
- Work closely with electrical engineers, systems engineers, and manufacturing teams to ensure seamless integration of mechanical components within larger aerospace systems.
- Participate in design reviews with cross-functional teams to assess design feasibility and identify potential design issues.
Documentation and Reporting:
- Create and maintain detailed design documentation, including drawings, specifications, and reports.
- Prepare design reviews and presentations, highlighting key design features, performance characteristics, and progress updates.
- Ensure compliance with industry standards and regulatory requirements by maintaining clear and accurate documentation.
Learning and Development:
- Participate in continuous learning through on-the-job training, attending engineering workshops, and staying up-to-date with new aerospace technologies and design techniques.
- Take the initiative to improve your design skills by learning about new software tools, advanced analysis techniques, and cutting-edge aerospace materials.
Quality Assurance and Continuous Improvement:
- Assist in evaluating and improving existing design processes to increase efficiency and reduce costs.
- Ensure that designs adhere to quality standards and aerospace industry regulations (e.g., FAA, ASTM, ISO).
- Participate in post-project reviews to identify areas for improvement in the design process.
Key Focus Areas:
Aerodynamics:
- Assist in optimizing aerodynamic systems for aircraft or spacecraft performance using modeling software.
Propulsion Systems:
- Contribute to the development and testing of propulsion systems, focusing on efficiency and reliability.
Structural Engineering:
- Design and test structural components to ensure strength, durability, and safety.
Systems Integration:
- Support integration of mechanical, electrical, and avionics systems to ensure seamless operation.
Stress and Fatigue Analysis:
- Perform analysis on components to ensure they can withstand operational stresses and fatigue.
Quality Assurance & Control:
- Ensure adherence to industry standards through inspections, testing protocols, and quality control procedures.
Qualifications and Skills:
Educational Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
- 1-2 years prior academic experience or internships in aerospace design or mechanical engineering is beneficial.
Technical Skills:
- Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., CATIA, SolidWorks, or AutoCAD) for 3D modeling and creating technical drawings.
- Basic understanding of mechanical systems, materials, and aerospace engineering principles (stress, strain, thermodynamics, fluid dynamics).
- Familiarity with Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and other simulation tools is a plus but not required.
- Knowledge of basic manufacturing processes and how to design components for manufacturing.
Soft Skills:
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality work.
- Good communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively with team members and across departments.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, with a logical approach to tackling engineering challenges.
- Ability to work independently and within a team environment to meet deadlines and achieve design goals.
Certifications (Optional but Beneficial):
- Certification in CAD software (e.g., Certified SolidWorks Associate).
- Any additional courses in aerospace design, FEA software, or materials science would be advantageous.